Sestola Castle is one of the most important fortifications in the Modena Apennines.

Its strategic position, high on a rocky spur overlooking Sestola and the surrounding valley, is part of its great charm.

It is very much the symbol of the village of Sestola, and is affectionately called “The Fortess” (‘Rocca’ or ‘Forte’) by residents of the village.

castello di sestola autunno
The castle during autumn

Getting there

Sestola Castle can be reached on foot via either one of two roads which start out from the centre of the village.

The first, the ancient “Via Governatori del Frignano”, is a paved road that leads directly up to the castle from the church bell tower in the village. This is definitely the fastest way up, as well as the most picturesque, but it is also the most tiring.

The second road is again a paved road which leads up from the public library. In summer there is also a tourist train which goes up to the castle this way.

The museums

The upper part of Sestola Castle houses the museums that are managed and curated by the E’Scamadul Cultural Association.

There are both temporary and permanent exhibitions such as the Museum of Mechanical Musical Instruments, the Museum of Mountain Civilisation, and the Teresina Burchi Reiter Room.